American Rock Salt, the largest operating salt mine in the United States, will extend its rail siding operations at its facility in Mount Morris, retaining 300 jobs and creating 55 new positions in Livingston County, New York.

The firm’s $2 million project will extend its current rail siding by 1,500 feet. This will allow faster and more efficient transportation of the de-icing salt during periods when demand is high. This project is being done in tandem with the relocation of Vaporizer to Mount Morris, an ice melting products packaging company recently purchased by American Rock Salt that formulates and packages a variety of ice melting products, including calcium chloride and rock salt, Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Office reported.

A new, 10,000 square foot building will be built near American Rock Salt’s mining operations to support the relocation of Vaporizer. This new facility will include air control mechanisms to control corrosion of the mixed blends that the company will be packaging on new processing machinery by 2018. The combined relocation of Vaporizer and the extension of American Rock Salt’s rail siding operations amount to a $4 million investment in the company’s Livingston operations. In all, the company will retain more than 300 existing jobs in New York State.

American Rock Salt Co-CEO and Vice Chairman of Production/Operations Joseph Bucci, Sr., said, “Since the inception of American Rock Salt, the company has saved New York State and its residents millions of dollars in taxpayer savings.”

In order to assist this relocation and expansion project, Empire State Development will provide a $200,000 grant to Vaporizer and the New York State Department of Transportation will provide a $200,000 grant to American Rock Salt.

“This expansion by American Rock Salt is another example of how we are helping businesses thrive in Upstate New York and laying the groundwork for a more vibrant economy across the region,” Governor Andrew Cuomo said. “By supporting this company’s efforts, we are helping them increase their output and become more competitive, while also retaining 300 jobs and bringing 55 new positions to Livingston County.”

Empire State Development President/CEO/Commissioner Kenneth Adams, said, “American Rock Salt credits its success to the outstanding workforce in New York State, making the decision to expand here in the state that much easier. With the state’s assistance, American Rock Salt and Vaporizer are bringing new economic energy into the local community.”

Each day, depending on demand, between 10,000 and 18,000 tons are produced by American Rock Salt’s experienced miners from its Hampton Corners mine south of Rochester. It also has the largest distribution network in the northeast, which means a faster and more dependable delivery process.

To ensure American Rock Salt is environmentally friendly, the company works closely with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. It’s mine, with its underground screening and crushing operations, prevents fugitive dust and particles from reaching the surface. In addition, its Quality Control Engineer monitors groundwater and river water daily to ensure all ecosystems remain in balance.